President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Benue State on Wednesday in a show of solidarity with the grieving communities affected by the recent killings in Yelwata, located in Guma Local Government Area. The violent incident, which claimed hundreds of lives, drew nationwide condemnation and concern over the region’s security. During his visit, President Tinubu engaged with major stakeholders in the state to discuss actionable responses and to offer federal support in addressing the escalating conflict. Presidential Orders and Appeals During the Benue Visit In a decisive response to the security crisis, President Tinubu issued several directives during a town hall meeting with the Benue State Governor and high-ranking security officials: The visit by the President has been viewed as a significant gesture of empathy and responsibility, with citizens hoping that the directives will translate into practical steps towards ending the cycle of violence in the state.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a visit to the victims who survived last Friday’s tragic attack in the Yelwata community, located in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the president landed in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Wednesday. Upon arrival at the Tactical Air Command of the Nigerian Air Force Base in Makurdi around 12:58 pm, he proceeded directly to the hospital. Following the hospital visit, President Tinubu departed for the new Banquet Hall at the Benue State Government House. There, he was scheduled to meet with key stakeholders across the state in response to the series of violent incidents that have claimed many lives. In anticipation of the president’s arrival, the Benue State Government declared a public holiday to honor his visit. The president’s visit came after the violent assault on the Yelwata community, which reportedly resulted in the death of over 200 people, leaving many others with injuries. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers arrived early in the morning and split into three separate groups. This strategy allowed them to attack the community from various entry points. Locals at the scene stated that the assailants began shooting in different directions, creating confusion and overwhelming the efforts of community security personnel.
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A Nigerian civil advocacy group, the Centre for Reform and Public Advocacy, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu lacks the constitutional authority to appoint officials for the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) tasked with overseeing local government elections. In light of this, the group has urged the Nigerian Senate to withhold confirmation of the President’s nominees for the role of Chairman and members of the Rivers electoral body. According to the group, the 1999 Nigerian Constitution exclusively empowers state governors to make such appointments, and allowing the President’s nominees to be confirmed would represent a serious constitutional violation. Furthermore, the group threatened to pursue legal action against the Senate if it proceeds with the approval of the President’s choices. In a formal letter sent to the Senate President and acknowledged by his office on June 17, the organization maintained that there is no vacancy at RSIEC. It emphasized that the current members were duly appointed and their tenure remains valid. The letter, which was signed by Barrister Kalu Agu Kalu, the Head of the Legal Unit of the Centre, emphasized that President Tinubu does not possess any constitutional or statutory mandate to appoint officials for any State Independent Electoral Commission, including Rivers State. The letter further reads: “We are a non-profit, pro-democracy, human rights, anti-corruption and public interest advocacy organization in Nigeria.In line with our mandate, we wish to bring to your attention that there is no vacancy in the RSIEC.This correspondence is in response to President Tinubu’s recent letter seeking Senate approval for the appointment of a Chairman and six members to RSIEC.It is important to highlight that Sections 197 and 198 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) clearly place the power to appoint RSIEC officials in the hands of the Governor of Rivers State, subject to confirmation by the Rivers State House of Assembly.The RSIEC is currently active and fulfilled its last constitutional responsibility during the October 5, 2024 Local Government Elections, although the results were later nullified by the Supreme Court.Furthermore, Section 201(1)(2) outlines the procedure for removing any RSIEC official. At present, no resignation or removal has been confirmed.” The group questioned the basis of President Tinubu’s move, highlighting that the existing RSIEC officials’ tenure is still active, and there has been no formal resignation or official notice of dismissal. It concluded by urging the Senate to stop any action aimed at confirming the President’s appointees, stating: “Should the Senate proceed with the confirmation process despite this warning, we will initiate a legal injunction within two days to prevent this constitutional breach.We trust that sound judgment will prevail to avoid unnecessary litigation and misuse of public funds.”
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The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his intervention and prompt visit to Benue State, aimed at fostering peace and stability in the troubled region. In an official statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, the association’s National President, Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, praised the President’s decisive move and extended gratitude to federal authorities and security forces for their swift actions in quelling tensions in the affected communities. “We sincerely appreciate President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for his immediate intervention and personal visit to Benue,” the statement read. “We also acknowledge his bold stance in encouraging both political and traditional leadership in Benue to embrace peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding.” Othman-Ngelzarma emphasized that this gesture is expected to contribute significantly to restoring enduring peace not only in Benue but across the country. He offered heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian government, the people of Benue, and all affected citizens nationwide for the tragic loss of lives and destruction of properties in the wake of recent conflicts. Speaking on behalf of MACBAN, Othman-Ngelzarma reaffirmed the group’s dedication to national unity and peaceful living among Nigeria’s diverse ethnicities. “As the national body representing Fulani cattle breeders, MACBAN stands firmly for peace and harmonious relationships among the over 300 ethnic groups in Nigeria,” he stated. He also reiterated that as a key contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the cattle-rearing sector has a vested interest in national unity and stability. Furthermore, the MACBAN president urged political, religious, and community leaders to encourage reconciliation and collaboration between farming communities and pastoralist groups in the state. He stressed the need to put an end to rhetoric that fuels division and undermines national cohesion. “We call on all stakeholders—traditional, political, and religious—to stop propagating narratives that trigger disunity and instead promote mutual tolerance,” he concluded.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And Asa cried unto the LORD his God, and said…help us, O LORD our God; for we rest on thee, and in thy name we go against this multitude. O LORD, thou art our God; let not man prevail against thee (2 Chronicles 14:11). There’s a remarkable story of war in the days of Asa, king of Judah. The Bible tells us in 2 Chronicles 14:9 that Zerah the Ethiopian came against Judah with an army of a million men and three hundred chariots. That was an overwhelming force. But Asa didn’t cower in fear; instead, he went out to face them, setting the battle in array in the valley of Zephathah at Mareshah. Then Asa did something inspiring; he cried unto the Lord his God for help! Though vastly outnumbered, he knew he needed a miracle, and his trust was in the Lord. He recognized that numbers meant nothing to God. His confidence was in the Name of the Lord. He said, “…in thy name we go against this multitude. O LORD, thou art our God; let not man prevail against thee” (2 Chronicles 14:11). What an audacity of faith! Asa understood that life is controlled from the spiritual realm, so, he looked beyond the physical advantage of the enemy and saw the Lord as his help. This is the mindset you must have at all times. No matter the opposition, the power, influence or wickedness of the adversary; greater is He that is in you than Satan and his cohorts put together. They may appear formidable, but they are weak, and you’re strong. Their words are empty, but yours are full of divine authority. The result of Asa’s prayer was extraordinary. The Bible says, “…the LORD smote the Ethiopians before Asa, and before Judah; and the Ethiopians fled” (2 Chronicles 14:12). They fled despite their overwhelming numbers, and Asa and his men pursued them all the way to Gerar, utterly overthrowing them. The Bible says they could not recover themselves because they were destroyed before the Lord and His host. Asa and the people of Judah carried away great spoils (2 Chronicles 14:13). The victory was total; read 2 Chronicles 14:14-15. The fear of the Lord fell upon their enemies, and Judah prospered. Our God is great. So, when you face challenges, don’t be moved. Focus on Him. He is your help, and through Him, you always prevail. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, you’re my strength and my victory. I stand firm in faith, declaring your Word, knowing that all power belongs to you. Thank you for always causing me to triumph in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY2 Corinthians 2:14Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. Romans 8:37Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 2 Chronicles 14:13-15And Asa and the people that [were] with him pursued them unto Gerar: and the Ethiopians were overthrown, that they could not recover themselves; for they were destroyed before the LORD, and before his host; and they carried away very much spoil. 14 And they smote all the cities round about Gerar; for the fear of the LORD came upon them: and they spoiled all the cities; for there was exceeding much spoil in them. 15 They smote also the tents of cattle, and carried away sheep and camels in abundance, and returned to Jerusalem. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 7:54-8:1-8 & 2 Chronicles 31-32 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 2:8-20 & Deuteronomy 16 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I live a life of faith. I’m not moved by what I feel, see, or hear. I am only moved by God’s Word. The presence of the Holy Ghost in my life gives strength to my spirit, soul, and body. I am replenished and built up by the Word. I walk in the full benefits of the salvation that Jesus Christ wrought for me, including health, peace, prosperity, and all-round success. Every day of my life is full of God’s glory, beauty, excellence, and grace. Every day God loads me with great benefits. In His favor my horn is exalted. I live above infirmities and the harsh elements of this world because the One who lives in me is greater than he that’s in this world. Nothing and no one can hurt or come against me successfully, for I have the unconquerable life of God. Satan and the powers of darkness are under my feet; therefore, I have nothing to fear. The impulses of fear have been completely disabled from my life. Irrespective of the situation, I’m bold and courageous, speaking the Word in faith. Everything connected to me is infused with eternal life and divine energy. Everything about me exudes the life of Christ; therefore, my health does not fail, rather, it is ever radiant and ever flourishing. There is no failure in my body systems; no heart failure, no kidney failure, no lung failure, no liver failure. All the organs and systems of my body are functioning perfectly well. There is perfect soundness in my body. I’m seated with Christ, far above all principality, power, might, dominion and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come! I’m exalted with Him in glory; I know who I am: chosen, royal and peculiar! My life is the expression and manifestation of the glory and righteousness of Christ. Therefore, I am superhuman! I have the life of Christ at work in my spirit, soul, and body. I walk in supernatural strength, supernatural health, supernatural supply, and supernatural abilities every day. My progress is unstoppable because I cannot be limited by sickness, disease, or the negativities of the ordinary life. As Jesus is above all things, so am I. The Holy Spirit has beautified my life. He
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The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has raised concerns that persistent insecurity and escalating global tensions may further aggravate food price inflation across Nigeria. Speaking in Lagos on Tuesday, the Director-General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, highlighted these risks in reaction to the recently published May inflation report, which shows a slight decrease in the country’s headline inflation rate. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s inflation rate declined slightly to 22.97% in May 2025, down from 23.71% recorded in April. Dr. Almona interpreted this as a marginal but welcome improvement, noting that it breaks the pattern of continuous inflation growth over past months. She credited the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) efforts—such as interest rate hikes and liquidity tightening—as contributing factors to the modest decline. However, she cautioned that these improvements might not last if deeper structural threats are not addressed. She emphasized that the escalating farmer-herder conflicts in the Middle Belt, as well as recent flooding events, are likely to negatively impact food production and harvesting throughout the year. In addition, she pointed out that global conflicts, including the prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine and ongoing unrest in the Middle East, have disrupted international logistics and food supply chains. “These factors can severely impact harvest output and cause further disruptions in supply chains,” Almona warned. “Rising oil prices, caused by geopolitical instability and trade disputes, may also increase the cost of importing fuel and other critical products.” She emphasized that these combined shocks could significantly threaten food security and trigger heightened food inflation, especially in Q3 and Q4 of 2025, which are pivotal in Nigeria’s economic cycle. Dr. Almona urged the Nigerian government to intensify its efforts to tackle security challenges, strengthen agricultural infrastructure, and enhance policy collaboration between key economic sectors. She called for a coherent mix of fiscal and monetary reforms, particularly in the oil and gas sector, which has in the past helped slow fuel price surges.
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Makurdi – As President Bola Tinubu arrives in Benue State today, survivors of last Friday’s savage assault in Yelewata (Guma LGA) are sharing chilling accounts of armed herdsmen targeting villagers—primarily women and children—with over 200 confirmed dead. Homes were torched and entire families wiped out. Governor Hyacinth Alia has dismissed calls for vigilantism, promoting instead a strengthened community policing model. Meanwhile, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa advocated for civilian joint task forces, akin to those in Borno, and the UN called for accountability. Personal Testimonies Michael Ajah: “I lost 20 relatives” Ajah mourned the loss of 20 family members and his entire stock and home. He recalled gunmen invading during heavy rain at about 10:20 pm. “They were Fulani men; I heard them speak,” he said. He escaped with only the garments on his back—all else, including family and property, was destroyed. Bature Bartholomew: “Livelihoods destroyed” Bartholomew lost his brother, sister-in-law, mother, and millions of naira worth of grains—maize, guinea corn, soya, rice—when attackers burned down his storage and home. Joseph Kwagh: “Eight family members killed” Kwagh watched as gunshots erupted during a storm. Amid confusion, his stepmother, father, and six siblings fled across the expressway but were later found among the burned bodies. He also lost all his farming supplies and fears he might never return to cultivate land. Kwagh noted recurrent tensions—cattle trampling crops go inadequately compensated, and communities are impoverished. Efforts to reclaim farmland were met with threats. “Yelewata was massacred unprovoked; we can’t farm in peace,” he said. Official and Security Responses Governor Alia urged citizens to reject self-defense, stating emotion-driven actions can heighten insecurity. Instead, he championed community policing, arguing local knowledge is crucial in protection. Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa met traditional leaders, pledging enhanced military-community partnerships. He acknowledged possible insider collaboration and announced a cross-border manhunt led by military and police forces. Additional security support: Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun toured the site; SGF George Akume arrived in Yelewata; and calls have intensified to enforce the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Law. Legislative and Civil Society Reactions Benue’s House of Assembly members accused the state of failing its people and urged enforcement of anti-grazing laws. Many called for the eviction of Fulani herders and declared a three-day state mourning (June 18–20, 2025). Former VP Atiku Abubakar and ex-Senate President David Mark have demanded urgent justice. Labour Party’s Peter Obi praised Tinubu’s visit but urged similar prompt responses in flood-affected Niger State. International Condemnation UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the assault and called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice, pledging close monitoring of developments. Broader Context Benue, known as Nigeria’s “food basket,” continues to grapple with deadly herder-farmer conflicts rooted in land, grazing, and ethnic tensions. Previous mass killings in the state reinforce the need for structural security reforms. Mokwa vs. Mthatha: The Call for Responsive Leadership Combined, the trip from Abuja to Mokwa and back totals about 1,134 kilometers, which is still significantly shorter than the 1,870 km round trip recently undertaken by South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, who traveled from Pretoria to Mthatha to personally console flood victims. In contrast, less than 100 lives were lost in the South African flood disaster, while over 200 Nigerians perished in Mokwa, and more than 1,000 are still unaccounted for. “If President Ramaphosa could personally respond to a crisis of that scale,” one local leader said, “we believe our President can do the same for Nigerians.” A visit to Mokwa, they argued, would underscore a strong message: that every Nigerian life counts, no matter how rural the community. Citizens also called for increased national security, particularly in high-risk and disaster-prone zones. The appeal closed with a powerful sentiment: “We don’t want leadership from a distance. What we need is proactive leadership—the kind that shows empathy through action. A new Nigeria is not only necessary—it is possible.” PFN to Tinubu: “Act Decisively or Risk National Collapse” The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has added its voice to growing calls for urgent federal intervention in Benue, Plateau, and other regions plagued by escalating violence and kidnappings. In a strongly worded statement, PFN President Bishop Francis Wale Oke described the Benue situation as a national emergency, demanding bold and immediate governmental action. “We urge the federal government to reclaim territories overrun by terrorists and restore them to their rightful indigenous owners,” Bishop Oke stated. He emphasized the trauma and displacement caused by ongoing attacks, warning that the fabric of society is unraveling in states like Benue. Failed Security Architecture Bishop Oke didn’t mince words about the state’s failure: “The current security system has completely failed. What’s happening isn’t a communal clash—it’s an invasion by illegally armed militias aimed at displacing indigenous communities.” He was especially outraged by repeated attacks on IDP camps, calling them “heinous crimes” against the most vulnerable. He argued Benue deserves a state of emergency declaration and stronger federal commitment. Although he acknowledged President Tinubu’s directive to deploy special security forces, the PFN insists such measures are belated and inadequate given the scale of devastation. “We need more than condolence visits. This is not a localized conflict—it’s a campaign of displacement and terror,” he warned. The PFN also extended its concerns to Plateau, Taraba, and other embattled states, urging the federal government to assert control, restore peace, and protect lives. Senate: “We Are Tired of Mourning—It’s Time to Act” The Nigerian Senate joined the chorus of concern yesterday, urging the federal government to halt the relentless bloodshed that continues to plague communities across the country. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chair of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, emphasized the need for urgent action: “We’ve done enough condolence visits—from Plateau to Benue. Now, it’s time to act. Security starts locally, and traditional rulers must be part of the solution.” He confirmed that President Tinubu’s visit to Benue marks a renewed commitment from both the executive and legislative branches to confront insecurity head-on. National Security
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In a strategic move to strengthen security in Nigeria’s North-Central region, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reinforced its aerial operations by deploying more aircraft under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS). This operation is a collaborative military campaign aimed at curbing insecurity across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States. The development was disclosed following a high-level security summit held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at the Tactical Air Command headquarters in Makurdi, the Benue State capital. Details of the meeting were shared via the official X (formerly Twitter) page of the Nigerian Air Force. Among the senior officers in attendance were Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira representing the Chief of Naval Staff, and several other top military figures. Following a ground assessment of ongoing military operations, Air Marshal Abubakar revealed that the newly introduced aircraft were already yielding significant results on the battlefield. He explained that the aircraft have expanded the military’s operational capabilities, offering real-time surveillance, tactical air support, and precision-targeted strikes, which have successfully neutralized militia hideouts and criminal encampments. He reiterated that this reinforcement is aligned with the Federal Government’s agenda to restore peace and security to the Middle Belt region and ensure the safety of law-abiding citizens. “As long as peace is under threat, our commitment will not waver,” Air Marshal Abubakar affirmed. During the joint press engagement, all participating Service Chiefs emphasized the critical need for inter-agency cooperation in addressing the current wave of insecurity. They collectively acknowledged that improved synergy among the Armed Forces has been instrumental in achieving recent military gains in the affected states. The military leadership further reassured the local population that the intensified efforts were part of a broader strategic mission aimed at allowing communities to “live and work in safety and without fear.” This renewed military offensive comes amid prolonged violence in Benue State, where incidents involving banditry, armed militias, and communal unrest have left over 200 people dead, triggering calls for lasting peace and protection.
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Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has stated that the commonly used term “farmers-herders clash” is misleading. According to him, the real situation involves animals encroaching on farms, not an actual conflict between the two groups. While speaking to journalists on Tuesday, the Defence Chief explained that the persistent violence in Benue State and similar regions stems from three core issues, rather than the supposed clash. He identified the first cause as land ownership disputes, especially involving indigenes and non-indigenes, which he described as a political problem requiring political solutions. The second issue, according to General Musa, is the movement of livestock. He stressed that using the term “clash” implies two active parties, but in reality, the conflict starts when livestock enters farmland, leading to destruction. “A farm is static,” he said, “and when an animal enters it, it’s not a clash—it’s intrusion.” He argued that if animals stop roaming, most of the current violence would disappear. Thus, he urged the government to intervene by regulating animal movement to reduce these incidents. The third concern is animal rustling. General Musa explained that roaming livestock are more prone to being stolen, which further escalates violence in affected communities. Controlling rustling and restricting movement, he said, could significantly reduce the crisis. “Many of these issues are beyond military intervention. They require political will and comprehensive governance,” he added. The Defence Chief emphasized that the military’s role is limited to protecting people from attacks, but lasting peace can only be achieved through political engagement and land policy reforms. Meanwhile, LMSINT MEDIA reports that more than 200 individuals were burned alive during a recent herdsmen attack in Yelwata, a village in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The tragedy has sparked widespread condemnation across Nigeria and international communities.
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Nigerian TikTok sensation Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, has gone viral following his intense reaction to an unexpected head touch by a stranger. In a now-trending video, Peller was seen inside his vehicle at a shopping mall, surrounded by enthusiastic fans. While interacting with them from his car, one individual suddenly stretched out his hand and placed it directly on the center of Peller’s head. Startled by the gesture, the visibly upset TikToker immediately exited his vehicle and pursued the man who had touched him. While confronting the individual amidst a crowd of onlookers, Peller accused him of trying to steal his spiritual glory. In the dramatic scene, Peller emphatically demanded the return of his “glory” before finally walking back to his car. The encounter was captured on camera and quickly went viral on social media platforms. The incident ignited discussions online, with many internet users expressing views on the spiritual implications of the head touch. Some suggested Peller’s reaction revealed deep spiritual awareness, while others found the act of touching his head unsettling and strange. Social Media Reactions LMSINT MEDIA gathered a collection of notable comments from the trending video: This isn’t the first time Peller has publicly exhibited his spiritual consciousness. In the past, he referred to himself as a “glorious child” during a live session of Nathaniel Bassey’s popular Hallelujah Challenge, where a name resembling his own was mentioned—an incident that also drew public attention. ? See the original video on Instagram: Watch Here
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Leaders from Benue State residing abroad have denounced a recent statement issued by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy. The statement had described the mass killings in Benue as “reprisal attacks” linked to farmer-herder disputes. In a compelling open letter to President Tinubu, the leaders denounced what they called a dangerous mischaracterization of the crisis. According to them, the violent attacks across Benue State reflect a pattern of ethnic cleansing and genocide, not communal conflict. The letter was jointly authored by Professor Akaa D. Ayangeakaa, President of the Mutual Union of Tiv in America (MUTA), and Chief Edwin Ochai, President of the Idoma Association USA. The letter provides a grim timeline of deadly attacks, notably the May killings in Gbagir (Ukum LGA) where over 70 lives were lost, and the June 14 Yelewata massacre in Guma LGA, where more than 200 people were reportedly murdered. The diaspora leaders expressed anger over what they perceive as federal neglect. They noted the absence of arrests, federal government presence, or tangible interventions, despite continuous bloodshed. The statement emphasized that what is occurring in Benue cannot be seen as a mutual conflict but is rather a systematic campaign of terror targeting native communities. Part of the Letter Reads: “In recent months, Benue towns and villages have come under deliberate, merciless assault. The savagery is beyond horrifying. In Gbagir, Ukum LGA, more than 70 innocent people were butchered in May. On June 14, Yelewata in Guma LGA witnessed another tragic episode — a massacre that took over 200 lives. These weren’t deaths caused by armed confrontation or stray bullets. These were planned killings. Entire households were wiped out, homes were torched, and survivors were left mentally scarred. Reports even suggest that law enforcement officers nearby were overwhelmed during the attacks. Yet, Guma and Ukum are not the only affected places. Similar violence has struck Otukpo and Apa LGAs. In early 2024, deadly attacks displaced entire settlements and annihilated communities. In areas such as Agatu, Gwer West, Logo, Kwande, Katsina-Ala, and rural Makurdi, unrelenting violence has decimated hope and displaced thousands. From the waterways of Agatu to Tarka and Buruku farms, Benue is in ruins. Still, the Presidency has remained silent. No federal action. No visits. No justice.” The leaders emphasized that these aren’t isolated clashes. They described them as part of an orchestrated ethnic cleansing and land-grabbing effort. According to humanitarian groups, the internally displaced population in Benue has surpassed 2 million. Many families now live in congested IDP camps with no access to necessities or dignity. The letter criticized Mr. Onanuga’s statement dated June 15, 2025, for falsely framing the events as retaliatory farmer-herder conflicts. They called the narrative false, insulting, and harmful. They wrote: “This is not a tit-for-tat between farmers and herders. There has been no provocation from our communities to justify such brutality. These are intentional attacks against defenseless villagers. Calling it anything less than genocide erases the pain of thousands and strengthens the hands of those behind the terror. Was the 7-month-old baby that was hacked and burned a farmer? Were babies killed in their mothers’ arms participants in a land dispute? These were mass murders, not communal disagreements.” The leaders opposed President Tinubu’s call for dialogue, stating: “Mr. President, your call for reconciliation assumes equal parties in a fight. The people of Benue are not in battle with Fulani or any ethnic group. We are not waging war. The attacks are carried out by faceless assailants who come to kill, burn, and steal land. This is terrorism. To suggest otherwise is to belittle the agony of the victims. Your reconciliation plan lacks justice. No known herdsman has been apprehended or punished for these atrocities. How can there be peace without justice? Reconciliation must follow truth and accountability.” The letter also reminded the federal government of Benue’s critical role in Nigeria’s agricultural economy. They stressed that treating Benue’s ordeal as a regional squabble undermines the country’s food security and national stability. “Benue is not just a farming state; we are the backbone of Nigeria’s food system. Our people grow crops that feed millions and generate exports. Destabilizing Benue has grave implications for the whole nation.” They also highlighted that Benue overwhelmingly supported Tinubu in the 2023 elections, driven by the hope his campaign promised. That hope, they said, is now in serious doubt. They insisted that government must respond with urgency. The letter concluded with six strong demands: The leaders concluded: “A President’s greatness lies in how he responds to the cries of his people. We don’t ask for favors. We demand our constitutional rights—safety, justice, and hope for tomorrow. While we appreciate your upcoming visit to Benue on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, your silence and mischaracterization have left deep wounds. If this tragedy had occurred in Kano, Sokoto, or Maiduguri, would the federal response have been this slow and indifferent? Are Benue lives less valuable? This is a defining moment for your administration. The nation and posterity are watching. Let your legacy be one of courage, fairness, and decisive leadership.”
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A series of powerful blasts were recorded in the early hours of Tuesday in Tabriz, a significant city in north-west Iran that houses a major Iranian Air Force installation. The event comes as the conflict between Iran and Israel continues to intensify. According to Ham Mihan, a local Iranian newspaper, two consecutive explosions were heard just five minutes apart. Mehr News Agency also circulated a video clip capturing thick columns of black smoke rising following the detonations. Tabriz, located more than 600 kilometers (approximately 375 miles) from Tehran, is recognized as a critical military zone. It has reportedly been the subject of recent Israeli airstrikes, which have escalated regional hostilities. While official confirmation regarding the exact cause of the explosions remains unavailable, the blasts appear to be linked to rising military conflict between Iran and Israel. Meanwhile, in a separate incident, General Kioumars Heidari, commander of Iran’s Army Ground Forces, announced that Iran had executed overnight drone strikes on strategic sites in Tel Aviv and Haifa. Speaking to state television, Heidari emphasized that the drones used were equipped with high-precision targeting systems and destructive capabilities. In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported intercepting about 30 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), many of which were suspected to have been launched from Iranian territory. According to the IDF, no drone successfully impacted Israeli soil, as most were neutralized before entering Israeli airspace.
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The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported on Monday that it successfully eliminated Major General Ali Shadmani, Iran’s newly instated senior military figure, in a direct airstrike. This operation occurred only days after Israel’s initial strike that took out his predecessor, marking an aggressive escalation in its ongoing conflict with Iran. Shadmani recently took command of the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, which serves as Iran’s top military emergency coordination unit. He stepped into the role following the death of Major General Gholam Ali Rashid, who was killed during Israeli military action the previous Friday. Shadmani maintained the leadership role for merely four days before being neutralized in what Israeli forces described as a carefully executed mission. According to statements released by the IDF, Shadmani operated as Iran’s top de facto military authority. He was referred to as the “chief of war staff” and maintained a close working relationship with Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. “He commanded both the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Iran’s conventional military forces,” the IDF stated. Further clarifying his influence, the IDF confirmed that Shadmani, under his leadership, authorized operational strategies and led offensive planning initiatives against Israel from within the Khatam-al Anbiya command center. The military emphasized that Shadmani played a hands-on role in developing and approving direct attack strategies targeting Israel. His elimination, the IDF claims, delivers a substantial disruption to Iran’s top-level command operations and decision-making structure. Shadmani previously served as deputy commander of the same headquarters and also held the post of chief of operations for Iran’s overall armed forces. These roles placed him at the core of Iran’s long-term strategic military blueprint and combat planning processes.
